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Cure for Rheumatism

My mum is suffering from rheumatism. They say it has no cure but I think is not true. So does rheumatism has cure? If yes, what is the cure?
(25 Mar 2011)

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), more commonly referred to as Rheumatism can be described as a chronic inflammatory disorder, which affects several tissues and organs, but has the maximum impact on the joints within the body. Over a period of time, people suffering from rheumatism may see the destruction of articular cartilage as well as the ankylosis of the joints. The factors that cause this condition play a vital role in determining its progress.


Rheumatism is more likely to occur in older people, mainly, those who are between the ages of 40 and 50; however, people of any age can be affected by it. This health problem is also three time more common in women, than it is in men. Since this condition can lead to intense pain and a lot of discomfort, it is only natural for people to seek treatment, at times combined with home remedies for rheumatism. However, before trying any form of treatment, including the home remedies for rheumatism, it is important for people to identify the possible causes.

Causes of Rheumatism

Health experts claim that of the numerous causes of rheumatism, the most prominent one is the autoimmune system. In normal cases, when a virus or any bacteria attempt to attack the human body, the white blood cells that are present, fight them off. These cells float throughout the body; however, at times, they leave the blood stream and enter the membranes that are around the joints. When this happens, they stop attacking the intruders and instead, irritate the membrane around the joints, causing pain, which leads to rheumatism. Factors that could cause the blood cells to leave the blood stream include:
  • Toxic waste in the body, left behind by unhealthy food
  • Hereditary factors 
  • Hormonal imbalances
Symptoms of Rheumatism

Since this condition affects mainly the joints, it could lead to severe pain and discomfort. Some of the symptoms of rheumatism arthritis are:
  • Inflammation
  • Muscle and joint pain 
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue 
  • Redness 
  • Stiffness
People who suffer from symptoms of rheumatism in hands may find it difficult to perform simple day to day activities, like writing with a pen, holding a needle and so on.

Treatment for Rheumatism

Unfortunately, there is no cure for rheumatism or absolute treatment for rheumatism, but there are several ways in which the pain, discomfort as well as the other symptoms can be controlled to a certain extent. This too would provide enough relief to the person suffering from the condition. Many health experts advise people to use home remedies for rheumatism in order to seek relief. Given below are some of the most commonly recommended home remedies for rheumatism:
  • Applying a warm compress or a cold compress on the joint, affected by the arthritis attack. It is best to try both, alternately, every few hours.
  • Avoiding unhealthy practices, such as smoking and drinking alcohol
  • Getting an adequate amount of light exercises each day, to strengthen the muscles around the joints
  • Finding different ways to relax and reduce the levels of stress in the body, through techniques such as meditation, yoga, massage therapy and deep breathing
  • Using certain types of plant oil, such as evening primrose oil, black currant oil or borage oil, on the affected joints. However, there are a few side effects like nausea, gas and diarrhea associated with this home remedy
  • Fish oil supplements have been known to reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain and stiffness. However, they can interfere with certain medication and therefore, should be used carefully. Moreover, they could lead to belching and nausea.
While the home remedies for rheumatism mentioned above are fairly safe if used correctly, it is best to check with a doctor before trying any of them.
answered by M W on 25 Mar 2011, 2:54:35

 

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